UNEMPLOYMENT has dropped to its lowest level in Wales since the economy crashed in 2008 with 2,100 fewer people in North Wales claiming job seeker benefits than a year ago.

The Office of National Statistics released the latest job figures for the three months to November.

It showed historic high numbers in employment with nearly 1.4m people in work in Wales - up 20,000 on the previous quarter.

The unemployment rate continues to drop, down to 7.2%, the lowest since December 2008, with 12,300 fewer people out of work in the three months to November.

The claimant count for December has fallen in every North Wales county with the overall figure for the region down 2,102 on the same month in 2012.

There were 708,000 women in work in the three months to November, the highest number since records began in 1992.

Youth unemployment has also seen a decrease of 600 this month, with 5,000 fewer young people claiming Jobseekers Allowance since this time last year.

First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “Today’s figures are particularly positive for Wales with employment levels at an historic high and economic inactivity at a record low.

“Wales is outperforming the UK as a whole in crucial areas such as youth employment, where unemployment amongst the 16-17 year old and 18-24 year old groups is falling faster in Wales than across other parts of the UK.

“While the damage caused by the UK Government’s failure to respond to the economic downturn has not been fully repaired, today’s employment figures, together with our positive economic output indicators, show that Wales can face 2014 with an increased spirit of optimism and confidence as our economy continues to recover more quickly than most other parts of the UK.”

Welsh Secretary David Jones said: “Our long-term plan is working, as there have never been more people in work in Wales, or indeed across the UK.

“Furthermore, we have seen sharp decreases in the numbers of those who are economically inactive.

“As a consequence of our taking difficult decisions, the UK is recovering strongly and more quickly, particularly in comparison with our European neighbours. We are setting down strong foundations for the future security of hardworking families and businesses.

“In Wales, there is growing optimism; we are demonstrating time and again that we committed to creating the right conditions for people who aspire to get on.

“Finally bringing our Help to Buy scheme into Wales this month has given a much-needed boost to the construction industry.

“I urge the Welsh Government to work more closely with us, and particularly to look at the many successful examples where we are promoting growth and put them in place in Wales.”